US President Joe Biden has reversed key policies regarding the supply of advanced weapons to Ukraine, including long-range missiles and anti-personnel landmines, as kyiv faces growing pressure on the battlefield and the potential need to negotiate with Russia.

Many American officials now recognize that Ukraine could be pushed into talks within months and could be forced to cede territory to end the war, The Washington Post (WP) reported on November 26.

In mid-November, Biden authorized Ukraine to use ATACMS to strike deeper inside Russia, a move aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s negotiating position. His administration had previously resisted providing such weapons, fearing an escalation of tensions with Russia.

The changes come amid significant challenges for Ukraine, including battlefield losses, reports that North Korea sent troops to support Russia, and Donald Trump’s inauguration in January . Trump vowed to end the war within 24 hoursbut officials fear his administration could end aid to Ukraine, undermining its ability to resist Russian aggression.

Biden aides say changing conditions on the ground drove his decision to provide weapons, but critics including the former U.S. ambassador to NATO Kurt Volkersay the delays have emboldened Moscow. “This gives Russia a feeling of impunity,” Volker told WP, ​​adding that earlier support could have strengthened Ukraine’s position. “They know they have sanctuary. They know we don’t want escalation, and they can continue the war, carry out strikes and do outrageous things.”

European allies, while welcoming recent arms transfers, expressed frustration that aid did not arrive sooner when Ukraine’s position was stronger. Many now believe that peace talks This could involve territorial concessions, and discussions have begun on possible security guarantees for Ukraine to deter future Russian aggression, according to the WP.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged NATO allies to increase support in favor of Ukraine before Trump returned to power, underscoring the need to strengthen kyiv before the US political landscape changes further.

“We will continue to strengthen everything we do for Ukraine to ensure that it can defend itself effectively,” Blinken said during his one-day emergency visit to Brussels on November 13.

Former Taiwan president urges US to prioritize aid to Ukraine over Taiwan, Politico reports

“A Ukrainian victory will provide the most effective deterrent against future aggression,” former Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen said at the Halifax International Security Forum on November 23.